The Marantz SR5003 AV Receiver is a mid-range AV Receiver that sports many high-end features. While a newly designed, aluminum and glass-reinforced body is immediately eye-catching, the SR5003 brings a welcome assortment of technology inside. This model has 90 watt per channel and 7 channel surround sound that will satisfy even longtime home theater enthusiasts with its combination of power and performance all for a low MSRP of around $800.

The SR5003’s linear power supply is engineered using a high-capacity EI core transformer. In addition, well-thought-out capacitors add to this model’s solid design. Much like previous models manufactured by Marantz, the SR5003 mounts all audio circuits on a separate board. As a result, video and control signals will not interfere with the system by providing optimum isolation.

The SR5003 also accommodates all of the latest high-resolution audio formats like DTS-HD in High Resolution and Master Audio implementations, Dolby TrueHD, DSD, and even legacy formats like Dolby Digital. This is made possible through the receiver’s top-of-the-line Texas Instrument microprocessor.

The included Audyssey MultEQ system also lets you optimize these sources whatever space the SR5003 will be housed in. The SR5003 miraculously examines your current space and recommends a close-to-perfect acoustic environment for up to 6 viewers.

3 HDMI 1.3 capable inputs and 1 HDMI output makes it easy to integrate the SR5003 to most home theater systems from high definition TVs to other new source components. Furthermore, the SR5003 upscales older analog video sources using an i-Chips Technology video signal converter.

The Upside

The Marantz’s modern cosmetic design strays from the brand’s more familiar gold and black front classic fascia (that Marantz has used for years). However, this bold move is a step in the right direction as the first impression you get looking at the Marantz SR5003 AV Receiver is its minimalist, neutral style, able to blend into any space.

After admiring its looks, you will also notice that even at its low price, the SR5003 can also accommodate all of the current codecs, including Blu-ray and HD DVD. Saving by buying this bargain receiver doesn’t mean you have to miss out. In addition, the SR5003 provides flexible control for your home theater and even an additional zone.

Again not your typical “bargain” AV receiver, the inclusion of Audyssey MultiEQ room correction (found in high-end systems) allows optimum performance for any room. Add to that the well-planned inputs and outputs that give the Marantz AV Receiver room to expand as your needs and your home theater system changes. As a result, the Marantz AV Receiver is not a “throw away” starter system.

The Downside

Most high-end home theater system owners will probably skip the Marantz SR5003 AV Receiver in favor of more expensive models matching their other components. While this model is sufficient for simpler systems, its only 90 watts per channel is limited especially for larger rooms and systems using inefficient speakers. However, this can be solved by adding an external 7 channel amplifier.

In addition, the 3-to-1 HDMI switch is enough for simpler system setups but again limiting to larger, more advanced home theater systems that require more HDMI inputs. Two solutions to this is the addition of a bigger receiver or an external HDMI switcher. Of course, all these options are also at an added cost.

While the SR5003 does video upscaling, as in most new AV receivers in the market today, it is not the most optimized especially for larger screens. Once again, these are problems related to larger, more complex systems, but the SR5003’s features will be enough for simpler systems and novice home theater owners.

Conclusion

The Marantz SR5003 is a low-priced choice that accommodates simple needs, including handling the new audio codecs of Blu-ray and HD DVD. It efficiently does the job more than worthy of its small price tag. Marantz’s signature sound quality is also hard-to-miss in this model. However, the only 90 watts per channel won’t be sufficient for home theater systems using inefficient speakers and for larger rooms. All in all, there is a lot to like about the Marantz SR5003 AV Receiver apart from its more than agreeable price.